A bus operator is facing calls to put the brakes on controversial plans to scrap three Aberdeen bus services.
First Bus revealed earlier this week it planned to remove the X40 and 11 services from Kingswells.
Company officials claimed that passenger numbers had been consistently low throughout the week and at weekends, averaging just 3.6 passengers per journey on weekdays.
Frequent services from rival firm, Stagecoach, were also said to have played a part.
A row erupted, which was exacerbated by the announcement the company was also planning to put an end to the number 4 bus service which runs between Danestone and Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
In the days since the proposals emerged, the company has come under fire from a number of north-east politicians.
And Aberdeen Donside MSP Mark McDonald will meet with bus chiefs later today.
He said: “The communities which surround our cities are great places for people to live, but once transport links are cut back in the name of private company profits, the standard of living for folk and their quality of life is put into question.
“I will be seeking evidence and answers from First Bus on Friday morning and will be communicating with my constituents as soon as possible about the next steps on this matter.”
Meanwhile, north-east MSP Liam Kerr has written to First to raise his concerns.
In his letter, he stated: “Not only is this objectionable on the grounds that certain people, not least the elderly and disabled, rely on public transport to get around.
“But [there’s] also the fact workers, travellers and those going further afield have no option, but to either take a taxi or take their car.”
First Aberdeen has responded by arguing it is mindful of the impact the proposals will have on the communities.
A spokesman said: “First Aberdeen undertook a period of consultation on the services earlier this year. We listened to feedback and improved speed and reliability but, despite these changes, it has not been possible to increase patronage to a sustainable level.
“We are due to enter a period of consultation with Aberdeen City Council on the planned withdrawal and would emphasise that consulting passengers and stakeholders is at the heart of our service decisions, as evidenced by our efforts with services X40 and 11.”
